Tokyo: open a bank account as an expat - step-by-step

Exterior of a Tokyo bank district with signage and people entering a branch

Moving to Tokyo? Opening a Japanese bank account is one of the first practical steps that makes paying rent, receiving salary, and using utilities much easier. This guide walks you step-by-step through what Tokyo branches will commonly require, which providers are expat-friendly, and practical local tips — all based on official and major local sources so you can prepare documents and expectations before you visit a bank branch.

Why open a Japanese bank account in Tokyo

A local bank account is often required by landlords and employers in Tokyo, and it simplifies monthly bills and salary deposits. Japanese banks typically insist on a valid Residence Card (在留カード, zairyu card) and a Tokyo address before account opening procedures proceed [1]. If you are still on a short-term tourist stay, most retail banks will not accept your application; long-term residency status is normally required [1].

Which banks and providers are expat-friendly in Tokyo

Three useful options for new arrivals in Tokyo:

Japan Post Bank (Yucho) — the largest branch/ATM network across Tokyo and often the simplest choice for initial banking needs; its English information is available online for account basics and branch locations [2].
Shinsei Bank — known for English services and international-customer support; check Shinsei’s English pages for eligibility and branch details in Tokyo [3].
Neighborhood ATMs (7-Eleven) — while not a bank brand, 7‑Eleven ATMs across Tokyo accept many cards outside normal banking hours and are invaluable for cash access [5].

Required ID and documents

Prepare the following before visiting a Tokyo branch. These items are consistently requested by banks and official guidance:

Residence Card (在留カード, zairyu card) — primary ID to prove your legal residency status in Japan [1].
Passport — many banks will also ask for your passport for identity verification [1].
Tokyo address and phone number — you will usually need to show that you have a local address; banks expect you to register your address at your ward office first (see next section) [4].
My Number (Individual Number) documentation — not always mandatory at account opening, but banks may request it later for tax reporting; keep your card or notification handy [4].

Before you go: register your address at your ward/municipal office

In Tokyo, complete your juminhyo (residence registration) at your Tokyo ward or municipal office before visiting a bank. JETRO and other official resources advise registering your address first because banks commonly require confirmation of a Japanese address and phone number when opening an account [4]. Bring your Residence Card and passport to the ward office; the ward staff will issue the residence registration you can show to banks.

Step-by-step: what to expect inside a Tokyo branch

While procedures vary by bank, the typical in-branch sequence is:

ID check — present your Residence Card and passport for verification [1].
Complete application forms — many branches use paper forms (Japanese); ask for English materials in banks that offer them or bring an interpreter [3].
Choose account type, ATM card, and (optional) passbook — basic deposit/withdrawal accounts are standard; some banks issue an ATM card on the spot, while passbooks can take days to be mailed or issued [2][3].
Signature vs. hanko — for standard deposit/withdrawal accounts a signature is usually sufficient, though some specific transactions may still request a personal seal (inkan) [3].

Alternatives: Japan Post Bank, online banks, and international branches

Japan Post Bank (Yucho) remains a reliable first stop in Tokyo because of its dense branch and ATM network, including many locations near post offices and major stations; its English pages explain account types and branch services [2].

Close-up of a Japan Post Bank sign and ATM inside a Tokyo post office

Online and international banks have become better options for expats. Shinsei Bank offers English support and international transfer services aimed at foreign customers; check their Tokyo branch listings and online application information in advance [3]. International banks with Tokyo branches can help with cross-border transfers but usually require additional documentation.

After opening: online banking, ATMs, debit cards and overseas transfers

Sign up for online banking as soon as possible if available. Use 7‑Eleven ATMs and Japan Post ATMs for wide access across Tokyo; 7‑Eleven ATMs are notable for accepting many international cards and operating outside normal bank hours [5]. For overseas transfers, compare fees and exchange rates — banks like Shinsei provide international transfer services tailored to foreign residents [3].

Common problems and practical Tokyo tips

Language barriers — many branches in central Tokyo may offer English support, but smaller neighborhood branches often do not; bring a Japanese-speaking friend or confirm English support by phone before you visit [3].
Branch hours — Tokyo bank branches usually open weekdays; ATMs (7‑Eleven, Japan Post) provide off-hours access [5][2].
Document preparedness — banks will ask for a Japanese address and phone; ensure you have your juminhyo from your Tokyo ward office before going to the bank [4].

Useful Tokyo-specific resources

Key official and bank resources to check before you go: the Immigration Services Agency for residence and card rules [1], Japan Post Bank’s English site for Yucho branch/ATM info [2], Shinsei Bank’s English pages for services to non-Japanese customers [3], and JETRO’s living guide for procedures like ward registration and banking basics [4]. For ATM hours and compatibility, Japan Guide provides practical notes on using ATMs in Tokyo [5].

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